PULLMAN, Wash. — Washington State University has reported an increase in whooping cough cases on campus.
In an email from WSU, , Cougar Health Services and local healthcare providers conducted comprehensive testing of symptomatic individuals. This effort has identified four additional confirmed cases of pertussis (whooping cough) at WSU.
“While cases remain low, there is an increased prevalence among individuals living in congregate housing (e.g., residence halls and fraternity/sorority housing). With this small increase in cases, it is important to remain vigilant by staying home if you’re feeling unwell and wearing a mask in public settings. Pertussis starts out like many respiratory illnesses, with a runny nose and sore throat. The predominant symptom of pertussis is a cough,” WSU said in their email.
Contact Cougar Health Services at 509-335-3575 or your healthcare provider if you believe you may have pertussis.